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Friday, October 10, 2014

Trimet continues marching toward privatization of its workforce

From http://trimet.org/pdfs/wse/wse_report.pdf
Opportunities for action
A new type of transit service called "Community Connector Service" is
proposed for areas with limited ridership potential. Community Connector
Service can be tailored to the community served and could range from
low-cost fixed route bus services to flexible shuttle services. This
type of service will be feasible if the traditional cost structure for
transit is modified or another entity operates the service. Based on
current development, future plans, and local aspirations, Westside
communities where Community Connector Service appears most appropriate
include Forest Gove, Cornelius, North Hillsboro, Dawson Creek, Rock
Creek, Cedar Mill and Forest Heights.

Reformed cost structure
Subject to labor contract negotiations, TriMet may look to develop a new
structure for operators that allows for tiers of drivers based on
experience. Less experienced operators at a lower cost per hour would be
assigned to Community Connector Services, lowering the cost per ride
and therefore making the service financially feasible to operate.
Another option would be for TriMet to contract with a private company to
operate the service subject to labor contract changes.

A new entity
A joint-powers authority could be developed between TriMet and local
jurisdictions to operate Community Connector Services. This entity would
be able to hire operators or contract service that could serve a
broader range of community areas and still be cost-effective.

Another operator
TriMet can work with jurisdictions to identify other funding
opportunities that would allow jurisdictions to contract for shuttle
services themselves. In early 2013, the City of Forest Grove was awarded
a Job Access/Reverse Commute federal grant to operate a shuttle service
in the community.

1 comment:

Both options are union-busting techniques which will eventually lead to the dilution in strength of the membership, further deterioration of worker morale ...and in the case of privatization, the obvious loss of union jobs.

A tier-system is never good. 757 should fight this with gusto should TriMet attempt to force this option.